<p>Brandeis is one of the schools my daughter is considering in terms of size, location, and academic quality. But I get the impression that it is rarely suggested as an option to posters on CC–any thoughts on why?</p>
<p>Probably because Brandeis isn't listed on the Top 25 list or the Ivy League thread. The average CC-er, or at least the ones that post most often, are over-achievers, much too brilliant to apply to such a pitiful university as Brandeis. I hope you sensed my sarcasm--I applied to Brandeis too. I find out February 15! 10 days left...</p>
<p>I will be attending Brandeis next fall. It was the only school that I applied to.
I decided to attend Brandeis for its reputation as a serious institution. As a serious student who doesn't want to go to a party school where getting drunk is more important than getting educated, I decided Brandeis was the best option. </p>
<p>Brandeis is well-known for its caring profesors who devote their time to the students, and not their own research like at the ivies. </p>
<p>Brandeis does not get the attention for two main reasons. First, it has a reputation as being a "Jewish" school which is a turn-off to many. As a Jew myself, it actually was a turn-on. Also, Brandies is kind of an "in-between school." It is too competitive for many of the average students, but not prestigious enough for the very brightest. So, many don't consider Brandeis to be their first choice.</p>
<p>I don't mean to sound like the flaky English teachers, but you shouldn't only attend the school because of the brand name. Brandies gives you a solid education and that's all that matters. Besides, having a Brandeis diploma is seen by many employers especially in Jewish communites as a sign of a smart, educated person.</p>
<p>Brandeis is an interesting place - intellectually lively, to use a hackneyed phrase. My son (an agnostic or aetheist, depending on the day of the week) liked Brandeis because of the nearly constant exchange of ideas, and the fact that its not a big party school. He is part of the Blue Ribbon app crew that is waiting for the 15th or whenever they actually sent their decisions.</p>
<p>Brandeis is awesome! I'm a freshman here right now, and I absolutely love it! All those students who simply pass over brandeis for whatever reason, and don't take the time to apply are really missing out! If any of you have any questions about the school, feel free to IM me or send me a message!</p>
<p>Our S is a freshman there and is very happy he decided on Brandeis. The size is fine, increasing diversity, many good activities including some in the community. The eduation seems excellent so far, with more being set up. Being only 55 years old, it doesn't yet have the name of many older New England institutions with which it competes for students; just give it more time.</p>
<p>Pyewacket: if you or D have specific questions or concerns, please post them.</p>
<p>My D was impressed with many of the advantages of Brandeis. Here are some doubts that perhaps you all can address:</p>
<p>Are there plenty of humanities, non-pre-med, non- pre-law, students around or is everyone an intense pre-professional or scientist?</p>
<p>D thought the dorms we saw looked small, crowded, and not as inviting as at some other schools--how is dorm life and are there enough places to go be on your own, read, study, and achieve a little "serenity"?</p>
<p>Is it easy to make friends and have good conversations over meals --rather impersonal seeming cafeterias?</p>
<p>As far as pre-med and humanities students are concerned, the campus is split basically 50/50. In fact, as the semester progresses, more students are turning into history/politics majors then there are pre-med. I'm a history and politics major with a minor in education. </p>
<p>The dorms are actually great. I live in Massell Quad (the one with the pond) and I love it. I'm not in the co-ed dorm that they probably showed you on the tour, but I love my building. Every dorm you live in is not going to be as nice as your own bedroom at home, but that part of the college experience. There are a ton spots around campus to do work in a quite, serene area. The green room in the library is great, and if that isnt quiet enough, you can always go to the science library. Which is SILENT. I prefer to study by the windows at Java City by the bookstore. In the Usdan Student Center, a new lounge was just renovated and put in, which is also a great quiet place to study and get away from the hustle and bustle of your dorm. </p>
<p>I have made so many friends since I came to Brandeis, and I'm a freshman. Orientation week provides a great opportunity to meet people. And as far as conversations over meals are concerned, my friends and I are often found staying in the Dining Hall (in Massell) for over two hours- just discussing things. My friends and I always have great conversations, and I think its because so many people here have the same goals and the same drive. Everyone at Brandeis wants to do well, and that is what I find so unique and great about the Brandeis campus. </p>
<p>Yes, I'm not going to lie, you are always going to find kids that don't like the school they attend. But reality is, if they really hated it, they would transfer. Brandeis has a pretty good retention rate from what I've seen among my classmates' plans for next year alone. </p>
<p>If you have any more questions, please feel free to post, or email me! My IM is also listed, so if your daughter has anymore questions, have her send me an Instant Message! Good luck!</p>
<p>Thanks a lot, synchrogal, will pass on the info to D.</p>
<p>The dorms vary in age; our S is in an older one but finds the place lively. There are many places students find for quiet studying in case the dorm is too lively. When we visited after a couple of months people were waving at him wherever we walked, and there were lots of gatherings at lunch and dinner tables; he seems to have made plenty of friends, or at least acquantainces.</p>
<p>Brandeis is gaining recognition in sciences, but long has been known for humanities including music, political science, economics and Near Eastern Studies.</p>